Ever dreamed of witnessing brown bears snatching salmon straight from the river? Or hiking across the rugged volcanic landscape born in 1912's Novarupta eruption?
In remote Katmai National Park, tucked away in Alaska's wilderness, wildlife and stunning scenery await the traveler who makes the trek.
This little-known gem is totally worth the effort, but you'll want to read up on how to plan your visit right — we've got you covered.
Things to See and Do in Katmai National Park
At Brooks Falls, witness the thrilling spectacle of brown bears skillfully fishing for salmon.
This area is not only famous for its bear-viewing opportunities, especially from late June through July, but also for the Brooks Falls Platform, which offers a safe wildlife-watching experience.
You can also enter the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, born from the colossal 1912 eruption of the Novarupta Volcano.
This area presents an awe-inspiring landscape of ash and lava flows. Visitors can take guided bus tours from Brooks Camp for an educational journey through the stark terrain.
Additionally, Katmai offers ranger-led programs and activities, including cultural and natural history talks at the Brooks Camp Visitor Center.
Overnight camping is available with a permit, and the park encourages 'Leave No Trace' principles to preserve its pristine environment.
Hikes and Trails for the Road
Katmai offers diverse hiking experiences, with trails that offer everything from bear viewing to cultural history.
1. Brooks Falls Trail
The Brooks Falls Trail is 1.2 miles long and is perhaps the most popular in Katmai. It's an easy, wheelchair-accessible path leading through the boreal forest to excellent bear-viewing opportunities at Brooks Falls, especially during the July salmon run.
2. Cultural Site Trail
Cultural Site Trail is a short, easy 0.1-mile trail starting from the Brooks Camp Visitor Center. It takes visitors through historical sites, including a reconstructed native dwelling, showcasing the area's rich human history.
3. Lake Brooks Road
Lake Brooks Road is an easy 1-mile route leading to Lake Brooks and the Brooks River, offering opportunities for salmon viewing and bear encounters during August and September.
4. Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road
Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road is a moderate 23-mile trek that provides access to the striking Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, ideal for those who enjoy long hikes and off-the-beaten-path exploration.
5. Dumpling Mountain Trail
Dumpling Mountain Trail is a moderate to strenuous 1.5-mile hike (with longer options available) that leads to an overlook with panoramic views of Naknek Lake and Brooks River. The trail passes through boreal forests and alpine tundra.
Wildlife and Natural Features
Besides the famous brown bears, Katmai is also home to moose, wolves, foxes, and numerous bird species. The park's biodiversity includes over 700 plant species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
The park's landscape is marked by volcanic activity, with features like the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a testament to the 1912 Novarupta eruption.
This area offers a unique hiking experience through a landscape of ash, pumice, and steaming fumaroles, providing hikers with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Planning Your Visit to Katmai National Park
While summer, particularly from June to August, is a popular time to visit Katmai National Park, it's important to note that each season offers unique experiences.
Summer provides nicer weather and is ideal for exploring the park's diverse landscapes.
For those specifically interested in brown bear viewing, July is the prime month, coinciding with the salmon run in Brooks River.
However, the official Katmai National Park & Preserve website highlights opportunities in other seasons, such as witnessing the Northern Lights in winter.
The NPS recommends checking the weather forecast before your trip and preparing for rapidly changing conditions. Pack appropriate gear, including rainproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots.
It's also crucial to familiarize yourself with and respect the park's rules to ensure your safety and preserve its ecosystem. For more travel tips for your stay in Alaska, read our guide: 25 Alaska Travel Tips That Will Make Your Trip a Success.
Getting There
Katmai National Park & Preserve is on the northern Alaska Peninsula, northwest of Kodiak Island and southwest of Homer, Alaska.
Unlike most U.S. national parks, it's primarily accessible by plane or boat, offering abundant opportunities for remote wilderness experiences.
1. By Air
Most destinations within Katmai can be reached via air taxi flights from Anchorage, Dillingham, Homer, King Salmon, Kodiak, and nearby towns. Prices vary based on group size, aircraft type, flight duration, and departure location.
Air taxi operators can assist in planning efficient routes. Regular commercial flights to King Salmon (AKN) are available from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) through Ravn Alaska and Alaska Airlines.
2. By Boat
Boats can access the Pacific coast of Katmai, allowing access to locations like Brooks Camp along the Naknek River drainage. Power boats can reach these areas from Naknek and King Salmon villages.
3. Brooks Camp
Brooks Camp, one of the most popular spots in Katmai, is approximately 30 air miles from King Salmon. It can be reached by small float plane (chartered from various towns and villages) or by boat.
In case you're driving to Alaska, save our guide: Driving to Alaska: The Complete Guide (Based on our experience)
Alternate Route:
One visitor shared going through another national park to reach Katmai National Park:
I went through another national park -- nearby Lake Clark National Park. Specifically the Farm Lodge there. They offer day trips there where they will fly you on a sea plane, dock by the entrance and then take you to bears by the falls.
Along the way there may be bears on the beach and we saw a good number of bald eagles by the shore.
Staying Informed and Safe in Katmai National Park
Preparing for inherent risks is crucial when visiting Katmai National Park and Preserve. You can never be too careful, so having a well-detailed trip plan is always helpful.
1. The Ten Essentials
First, save the Ten Essentials for Backcountry Travel in Katmai, the National Park Service's (NPS) comprehensive guide to the essential items and knowledge for navigating the park.
Before your Katmai adventure, brief a responsible party on your itinerary and return. Share it in person at visitor centers or email dispatch. Pack for the unexpected: waterproof gear, extra food, and possibly a satellite communicator.
Remember, flexibility is key in Alaska's wilds, so pad your schedule for potential delays.
2. Bear Safety
Then, of course, be careful around Katmai's 2,200 brown bears, as bear encounters are common. Your safety in these encounters depends on your knowledge. Learn about bears before your visit, and follow guidelines and regulations.
Enjoy the Majestic Katmai
Venturing to Katmai National Park is the trip of a lifetime, but proper planning is key. Respect the Alaskan wilderness by educating yourself beforehand, packing proper gear, and following park guidelines during your visit.
Most importantly, let Katmai's natural splendor enrapture you at the moment. Forget your worries amidst Katmai's remote serenity and make each moment count in this remarkable landscape.
The memories you forge exploring Katmai will stay with you long after you return home.